Ricky Pearsall Injury Update: Will 49ers WR Return Against Buccaneers in Week 6?

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall remains sidelined with a knee injury that kept him out of last Thursday night’s 26-23 win over the Los Angeles Rams. As the 49ers prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 6, questions loom over whether the rookie will make his return.

Pearsall has shown flashes of strong chemistry with quarterback Mac Jones early in the season, but his absence has left a noticeable gap in the team’s receiving corps. Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the media earlier this week, noting that while there’s “some possibility” Pearsall could suit up Sunday, the team won’t rush his recovery.

Latest on Ricky Pearsall’s Injury Status

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Pearsall did not participate in Wednesday’s practice and was also missing from Monday’s session. The 49ers’ injury list continues to grow, with several key starters still out, including Brock Purdy (toe), Nick Bosa (ACL), George Kittle (hamstring), Brandon Aiyuk (ACL/MCL), Jauan Jennings (ankle/ribs), and Malik Mustapha (ACL).

Pearsall, the 31st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Florida, has played in four games this season. So far, he’s recorded 20 receptions for 327 yards but has yet to score a touchdown. In his rookie campaign last year, Pearsall appeared in 11 games and totaled 400 yards and three touchdowns.

Before transferring to Florida, Pearsall began his college career at Arizona State, where he developed into one of the most consistent route runners in the Pac-12. That skillset translated well to the NFL, where he quickly became a reliable deep threat — posting an average depth of target (aDOT) of 15.9 yards this season.

Fantasy Football Impact and 49ers’ Offensive Outlook

Fantasy football managers have been closely monitoring Pearsall’s health leading into Week 6. PFSN analysts Jason Katz and Kyle Soppe believe Pearsall’s availability remains uncertain and urge caution. Soppe pointed out that Pearsall had previously mentioned “instability” in his knee after Week 4 — an uncommon and concerning term for any athlete.

“Those downfield routes require timing and trust,” Soppe noted. “With both Pearsall and Purdy dealing with injuries, it’s better to wait a week rather than start him too early.”

If Pearsall misses another game, Mac Jones will continue to rely on backup receivers and tight ends to carry the load. The 49ers’ offense, already limited by injuries to multiple starters, will face a tough Buccaneers defense that ranks among the league’s best in limiting big plays.

What to Expect in Week 6

The 49ers’ injury woes have become a major storyline heading into Sunday’s matchup in Tampa Bay. While Shanahan hasn’t ruled Pearsall out, his absence from multiple practices suggests the team is prioritizing long-term health over short-term gain.

Fans and fantasy managers should expect an official injury report by Saturday. If Pearsall logs a limited session by Friday, that could indicate progress toward a potential return. Otherwise, the 49ers may hold him out until Week 7.

Ricky Pearsall’s injury remains a concern, but San Francisco continues to manage his recovery cautiously. A return against Tampa Bay isn’t impossible — just unlikely unless he shows tangible improvement in practice before game day.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will Ricky Pearsall play in Week 6?

As of midweek, Pearsall has not practiced. His status for Week 6 against the Buccaneers remains questionable.

Q2: What injury does Ricky Pearsall have?

He is recovering from a knee injury that caused him to miss last week’s game against the Rams.

Q3: Who could replace Ricky Pearsall if he misses Week 6?

Expect increased targets for Jauan Jennings and the 49ers’ tight ends if Pearsall remains sidelined.

Q4: How has Pearsall performed this season?

He has 20 catches for 327 yards in four games, averaging nearly 82 yards per contest.

Q5: Is Brock Purdy also injured?

Yes. Purdy is dealing with a toe injury and has missed practice this week. Mac Jones is expected to start again.